A compact dazzler that generates a perpetual supply of bicolor blooms. The distinctive flowers are a standout against dark green, disease-resistant foliage. PP 27,138

A genus of Daisy-like plants, Coreopsis is excellent for the border. Most species are native to the southeastern United States and Mexico. They are not the least fussy about soil but require full sun. Cut stems back after the first flush of flowers fade to promote a repeat bloom.

The size of the plants we ship has been selected to reduce the shock of transplanting. For some, this means a large, bareroot crown. Others cannot travel bareroot or transplant best if grown in containers. We ship these perennials and annuals in 1 pint pots, except as noted. We must point out that many perennials will not bloom the first year after planting, but will the following year, amply rewarding your patience. We ship bulbs as dormant, bare bulbs, sometimes with some wood shavings or moss. Shrubs, Roses, vines, and other woody plants may be shipped bareroot or in pots. The size of the pot is noted in the quick facts for each item.

WHEN WE SHIP

We ship our bulbs and plants at the right time for planting in your area, except as noted, with orders dispatched on a first-come, first-served basis by climate zone. Estimated dates for shipping are indicated in the Shipping Details box for each item. Please refer to the Shipping Details box to determine the earliest shipping time. Unless you specify otherwise, fertilizers, tools, and other non-plant items are shipped with your plants or bulbs. Please supply a street address for delivery. Kindly contact us with two weeks notice, if you'll be away at expected time of delivery.

OUR GUARANTEE

We guarantee to ship plants that are in prime condition for growing. If your order is damaged or fails to meet your expectations, we will cheerfully replace or refund it. Please contact our Customer Service Department at 1-800-503-9624 or email us at [email protected]. Please include your order number or customer number when contacting us.

Merry daisies in shades of yellow and pink have made Coreopsis mainstays of the summer border. Newer colors include white with burgundy and salmon. Masses of flowers are produced for long periods, especially if plants are consistently deadheaded. These drought-tolerant perennials offer up cheerful blooms excellent for cutting and are of easy culture. There are varieties suitable for the front, middle, and back of the border, and as native Americans, they are right at home in wildflower gardens and meadows.

Light/Watering: Full sun brings out the best in Coreopsis, especially in well-drained soils. Water during drought, but Coreopsis is quite drought-tolerant once established.

Fertilizer/Soil and pH: Coreopsis is not fussy about soil, and will bloom exuberantly under a variety of conditions. Well-drained soils are best, especially in winter. Coreopsis rosea prefers an evenly moist soil (in which it may run a bit wild), although it is not a requirement. Fertilize lightly once in spring with a balanced granular formula; too much fertilizer will result in spindly growth.

Pests/Diseases: Healthy, vigorous plants under good culture are rarely bothered by insects; wash off light infestations of aphids with a forceful water spray. Diseases are also rare, especially in well-drained soils. If soils are too wet, the crowns may rot.

Companions: Butterfly delphinium (Delphinium grandiflorum) or other short Delphiniums are natural complements to yellow Coreopsis. Alliums, Daylilies, and Coneflowers are also lovely in combination with these bright daisies.

Reflowering: Daily deadheading, while onerous, will reward the gardener with almost continuous bloom. To achieve an attractive plant and possible rebloom in autumn, shear plants back by a few inches as flowering slows down in late July.

Dividing/Transplanting: Divide plants every three years in spring or early fall to maintain vigor. Please note that Coreopsis 'Moonbeam' will arrive as a tangle of roots and stems that defies attempts to distinguish top from bottom. Simply dig a wide, shallow hole and set the spidery thing inside horizontally, covering with an inch of soil. Gravity will prevail, and the plant will send roots down and shoots up.

End-of-Season Care: Do not prune back all the way for the winter, as stems left standing will protect the crowns. 'Moonbeam' will benefit from a mulch of salt hay or evergreen boughs.

Calendar of Care

Early Spring: Apply a light application of granular 10-10-10 fertilizer or side-dress with compost and organic amendments when new growth appears. Water newly planted Coreopsis regularly if spring rains are sporadic. Divide or transplant now if desired.

Summer: Deadhead daily for prolonged bloom. Shear plants back by ¼ to ½ to encourage more attractive form and possible reblooming in autumn.

Fall: Plants may be divided or transplanted now if needed. Do not prune all the way back—leave stems at 6–8″ to protect crowns through winter. Mulch 'Moonbeam' with salt hay or evergreen boughs.

White Flower Farm is a family-owned mail-order nursery located in northwestern Connecticut. Since 1950 we have been providing a wide range of perennials, annuals, bulbs, shrubs, vines, amaryllis, gardening tools & supplies, and gifts for gardeners. We also offer gardening advice and how-to information to gardeners throughout the United States. We invite you to browse our online catalogs, and to join our email list for special offers and useful gardening tips. White Flower Farm&REG; is a registered trademark of White Flower Farm, Inc. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.